Script of Oronyot Boroxun released in book format

It was back in 2004. Avid cinematographer and nature lover Mrinal Kanti Das was on his way for scouting shooting locations and making a field study for his début film as director of ‘Oronyat Boroxun’. The Rain Forest Conservation movement (Jaypur) led by environment activist organization Nature’s Beacon was the inspiration for Mrinal Kanti Das debut venture as director. A national award winner for best cinematography in 1997, Mrinal Kanti Das, however, could never complete the film as he was killed in an unfortunate road accident on the way back home.

Talking about the project, his wife Rubee Das says, “’Oronyat Boroxun’ (Rain in the Forest) was Mrinal Kanti Das’s most cherished project. The story revolved around the rain forest, an activist group’s constant efforts to preserve its flora and fauna and an adverse political situation to fight with. Along with it was the saga of an individual’s journey of life to a higher level of existence beyond personal sufferings.”

Although the film was never made, what late Das has conceived still has a lot of relevance in today’s times. As such, Rubee Das recently released the script of ‘Oronyat Boroxun’ in book format. “The idea behind publishing the book was to preserve the script and to rejuvenate the idea of discussing a film script in literary and academic purposes. Four special write ups have been included in the book to highlight Das’s deep commitment for nature,” says Rubee.

The book was recently released in Guwahati Press club by eminent writer, film critic Apurba Sarma amidst the presence of noted filmmakers like Goutam Borah, Sanjib Sabhapandit, Sanjib Hazarika, film critic Manoj Borpujar and cultural activist Nayan Prasad.

A holder in diploma of motion picture photography from FTII, Mrinal Kanti Das won the National Award for Best Cinematography in 1997 for his sensitive portrayal of nature and images in ‘Raag Biraag’ and ‘Adajya’. Although he got numerous opportunities to work in Mumbai and other places, he decided to stay back in Assam and make meaningful films in his home State. Despite his short span on earth, late Das’s sensitive handling of the camera and his sensitivity towards issues has made him a household name in the film fraternity of the country.